Course Description
String orchestra, performance of important works from symphonic repertoire of eighteenth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
demonstrate improved musicianship skills
improve performance skills
increase their awareness and knowledge of ensemble repertoire
Course Grading Information:
Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
Attendance/Participation | 50 points |
Concert Attendance | 40 points |
Additional Assignments (as assigned) | 10 points |
Grades will be based on attendance at rehearsals and performances, including sectionals, and evidence of personal preparation. Every ensemble member must attend every rehearsal, and any absence or tardy must be cleared in advance with the conductor. Additional assignments may be assigned as determined by the conductor.
Grading Scale
Percentage | Letter Grade |
|---|---|
93%-100% | A |
90%-92% | A- |
87%-89% | B+ |
83%-86% | B |
80%-82% | B- |
77%-79% | C+ |
73%-76% | C |
70%-72% | C- |
67%-69% | D+ |
63%-66% | D |
60%-62% | D- |
59% or below | F |
Attendance/Participation:
Professional musicians place dependability high on their list of desirable characteristics. Therefore, it is imperative that all members are present, on time, focused, and prepared for all rehearsals and performances. All rehearsal and performance dates are outlined within the Calendar of Events that accompanies this course guide. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure their availability.
Unexcused Absences
Each unexcused absence from rehearsal will lower a student’s semester grade by one letter.
An unexcused absence from a dress rehearsal or concert will result in a grade of “F” for the semester.
Unexcused Tardies
Two unexcused tardies will count the same as one unexcused absence, which will lower a student’s semester grade by one letter. Plan to arrive for rehearsal at least 5 minutes early.
Excused Absences
Excused absences will normally not be approved during the week of a concert, although rare exceptions may be granted by the conductor.
Scheduled absences such as religious observances, auditions, or competitions will generally be considered excused absences. However, it is the student’s responsibility to advise the conductor of these absences at least 10 days in advance. Failure to provide timely notification will result in the absence being considered unexcused.
Students may be granted an excused absence for a family emergency or sudden illness. Students should contact the conductor by email as soon as possible, preferably prior to rehearsal. Documentation will be required to grant an excused absence for illness beyond the student’s first missed rehearsal (unexcused or excused).
If granted an excused absence, the student may be expected to provide a substitute player who is approved by the conductor.
Policy on Outside Performance Opportunities
Many students receive calls to perform outside of the university, and these experiences are generally considered valuable components of your education. However, enrolling in this course indicates your commitment to the schedule. If an opportunity conflicts with a school event of any sort, you must fill out an absence form regarding the conflict a minimum of 10 days in advance. Factors to be considered include: timing within the schedule, the number and frequency of absences for any reason during the semester, if the conflict is avoidable, and the individual’s handling of the circumstances. Outside engagements scheduled prior to the start of school must be communicated for consideration within the first week of classes. Do not assume that an absence due to an outside opportunity will be excused. Exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
There is no required text for this course. Music to be performed will be provided by the School of Music. Failure to return university owned property related to this course in a timely manner will result in a grade of “incomplete” until such property is returned. You may be charged for lost or missing materials.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.